The Howard County Police Department wants you to be prepared in the event of an active shooter incident in your house of worship, workplace or any public environment. These situations are unpredictable and evolve quickly. Because active shooter situations are often over within a few minutes, even before law enforcement can arrive on the scene, individuals must be prepared both mentally and physically to deal with this kind of emergency. YOU are your own first-responder. Be prepared. Be smart. Be safe. Use the following information to learn more about the best ways to protect yourself and others.

RUN: Get away as fast as you can.

HIDE: If you can’t get away, learn the best ways to conceal and protect yourself.

FIGHT: If you are confronted and have no other options, fight for your life as your last resort.